Relating to an action to determine the status of certain documents or instruments purporting to convey title to or an interest in real property.
Impact
If passed, SB1853 would amend existing statutes within the Government Code by creating Section 51.9035. This section facilitates a streamlined process for property owners who suspect fraud, enabling quicker judicial review without the need for extensive testimony or claim defense. The court is authorized to rule based solely on the documentation presented, possibly expediting resolutions to disputes over title conveyance. Importantly, this bill constitutes a significant step towards protecting property rights by empowering individuals to contest fraudulent claims without incurring the usual procedural delays.
Summary
Senate Bill 1853 establishes a new legal framework for property owners to challenge the validity of documents that allegedly convey title or interest in real estate. This bill introduces a mechanism whereby property owners who suspect that a record has been fraudulently filed can seek judicial intervention to clarify the status of such documents. Specifically, it allows for a formal motion to be filed with the district clerk, which details the owner's claims regarding the irregularity or fraud associated with the document in question. The owner must attach a copy of the contested document to their motion.
Contention
While proponents argue that this bill enhances the integrity of property transactions and safeguards against fraud, potential points of contention may arise regarding the lack of evidentiary hearings prior to judicial determinations, as the process allows for decisions to be made without testimony. Critics might raise concerns that this could lead to erroneous rulings, affecting innocent parties inadvertently impacted by wrongful claims. Additionally, there may be discussions around the potential administrative burden placed on the courts due to the influx of motions which could arise from the new process, thus demanding a careful evaluation of both benefits and challenges as the bill progresses.
Relating to decedents' estates and the delivery of certain notices or other communications in connection with those estates or multiple-party accounts.
Relating to decedents' estates and the delivery of certain notices or other communications in connection with those estates or multiple-party accounts.
Relating to the powers, authorities, duties, and responsibilities of certain conservation and reclamation districts and to notice a person who proposes to sell or convey real property located in any of certain conservation and reclamation districts must provide to a prospective purchaser of that property.
Relating to the status of certain documents or instruments concerning real or personal property; creating the criminal offenses of real property theft and real property fraud and establishing a statute of limitations for those offenses; harmonizing other statute of limitations provisions; increasing a criminal penalty.